Federal Court Dismisses Trump Administration’s Case Against Harvard on Jewish Student Harassment
In a significant judicial decision from Boston, a federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit initiated by the Trump administration against Harvard University. The lawsuit alleged that the prestigious institution neglected the harassment of Jewish students on its campus.
U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns ruled that the administration did not adequately demonstrate a continuous violation of federal civil rights statutes. The lawsuit, filed earlier this year, largely revolved around incidents from the 2023-24 academic year, with additional instances cited from March 2025.
Judge Stearns noted that the cases were “too isolated and episodic” to substantiate claims of persistent civil rights infringements at Harvard’s Cambridge, Massachusetts campus.
“We disagree with the ruling and are assessing next steps,” stated Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for civil rights at the Department of Justice. Harvard has yet to issue a statement regarding the court’s decision.
The administration’s lawsuit asserted that Harvard failed to shield Jewish students during pro-Palestinian demonstrations that took place after the October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. The lawsuit accused Harvard officials of inaction while students faced harassment, physical assaults, and stalking.
Responding to the lawsuit, Harvard emphasized its commitment to the safety and respect of its Jewish and Israeli community members, stating it ensures they “are embraced, respected, and can thrive on our campus.”
Harvard President Alan M. Garber announced the formation of a task force aimed at combating antisemitism. Additionally, the university has made administrative changes, including hiring new leadership and reforming its disciplinary policies to enhance fairness and effectiveness.
The Trump administration sought to reclaim billions in federal research grants awarded to Harvard since October 2023. The basis for this action was Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race or national origin.
This lawsuit is part of a broader strategy by the administration against Harvard, following the university’s refusal to adhere to demands from the White House. Efforts have included attempts to cut research funding and restrict Harvard’s ability to enroll foreign students and U.S. military members.
Previously, a federal judge ordered the reversal of over $2.6 billion in federal funding cuts to Harvard, ruling that the conditions imposed by the White House were unconstitutional and used antisemitism as a “smokescreen for a targeted, ideologically-motivated assault” on universities.
Despite ongoing tensions, Harvard and the Trump administration have engaged in negotiations, with Trump noting that an agreement was nearly reached. However, the Justice Department’s civil rights lawsuit, filed in March, indicates a significant deadlock, as colleges typically resolve federal civil rights law violations through voluntary agreements.
